From global events to changing interest rates here in New Zealand, periods of uncertainty can feel unsettling. Markets move, headlines turn negative, and it’s completely natural to feel concerned about what it all means for your finances and your future.
The reality is, while we can’t control what’s happening around us, we can control how we respond—both emotionally and financially. The key is to stay grounded, avoid reactive decisions, and focus on what really matters over the long term.
Here are some simple, practical strategies to help you stay steady during turbulent times.
Be mindful of how much news you take in
It’s easy to get caught in a cycle of constant updates—especially when headlines focus on inflation, market drops, or economic uncertainty.
Staying informed is important, but too much negative news can increase stress and lead to impulsive decisions. Try setting limits—check updates once or twice a day rather than constantly scrolling.
From a financial perspective, reacting to every headline often does more harm than good. Markets naturally move in cycles, and short-term noise rarely reflects long-term outcomes.
Focus on what you can control
When things feel uncertain, it helps to bring your attention back to what’s within your control.
This might include:
– Your spending habits
– Your savings rate
– Paying down debt
– Keeping your financial plan up to date
You can’t control interest rates or market performance, but you can control your behaviour—and that’s one of the biggest drivers of long-term financial success.
Stick to simple routines
During uncertain times, structure matters more than ever. Keeping regular routines—like consistent sleep, exercise, and healthy eating—helps stabilise your mood and energy.
Financially, this also means maintaining good habits:
– Regular investing (such as KiwiSaver contributions)
– Consistent saving
– Avoiding big, emotional financial decisions
Small, steady actions over time tend to produce better outcomes than trying to “time the market.”
Stay connected and talk things through
It’s easy to keep worries to yourself, especially when it comes to money. But talking things through—whether with family, friends, or a trusted adviser—can bring clarity and perspective.
Often, just having a conversation can reduce anxiety and prevent rushed decisions. If you’re unsure about your financial position or what to do next, it’s worth seeking guidance rather than going it alone.
Use simple ways to manage stress
When uncertainty rises, so does stress—and that can impact both your wellbeing and your decision-making.
Simple techniques can help:
– Going for a walk (something we’re lucky to have plenty of here in NZ)
– Practising deep breathing or mindfulness
– Taking short breaks during the day
A calm mind leads to better decisions—especially when it comes to money.
Take breaks from screens and financial “noise”
Constant exposure to market updates, social media opinions, and predictions can be overwhelming.
Not all information is useful—and not all opinions are informed.
Taking a step back from the noise can help you stay focused on your own plan rather than being influenced by fear or speculation.
Keep perspective on your financial plan
It’s important to remember why your financial plan was set up in the first place.
Most plans are designed with:
– Market ups and downs in mind
– Long-term goals (like retirement or supporting family)
– A level of risk that matches your situation
Short-term volatility is normal. Markets have always moved in cycles, and history shows they tend to recover over time.
Making changes during uncertain periods—especially emotional ones—can lock in losses or derail long-term progress.
Focus on what gives you purpose
Uncertain times can make life feel like it’s on hold, but it’s important to keep doing things that bring meaning and enjoyment.
This could include:
– Spending time with family
– Getting outdoors
– Working toward personal goals
– Supporting others in your community
A strong sense of purpose helps build resilience—and that often flows through into better financial decisions as well.
Be realistic—and kind to yourself
It’s completely normal to feel uneasy when things are uncertain. You don’t need to have all the answers, and you don’t need to react to every change.
Financially, this means:
– Accepting that markets will fluctuate
– Understanding that plans may need small adjustments over time
– Avoiding perfectionism
Progress matters far more than perfection.
Get support when you need it
If you’re feeling overwhelmed—whether emotionally or financially—it’s important to reach out.
This might mean:
– Talking to a financial adviser
– Getting a second opinion on your plan
– Seeking support for stress or anxiety
You don’t have to navigate uncertain times alone, and getting support early can make a meaningful difference.
Final thoughts
Uncertainty is part of life—and part of investing. But with the right mindset and a steady approach, it doesn’t have to derail your progress.
By focusing on what you can control, sticking to good habits, and keeping a long-term perspective, you can make better decisions and feel more confident about the future.
And often, the most powerful thing you can do in uncertain times… is simply stay the course.
